Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is widely recognized as a vital biological signaling gas, and it has significant therapeutic potential. The majority of biological studies on this gasotransmitter have been carried out with systemically administered small molecule H2S donors, which have little tissue specificity, fast release, and the potential for off-target effects. For successful therapeutic use of H2S that avoids potential off-target effects, efficient delivery to a site of interest must be attained. We address these shortcomings through localized delivery of H2S using peptide-based gels. The gels are comprised of peptides derivatized with S-aroylthiooximes—a functional group that releases H2S in response to thiols. The functionalized peptides self-assemble in aqueous solution to form long cylindrical micelles, and entanglement of these cylindrical micelles leads to gelation in aqueous solution at 1 wt. %. Cysteine-triggered decomposition leads to H2S release and disassembly of the gel. We present here the synthesis, mechanical properties, H2S release rate, and biological evaluation of these unique gels.

Thiol-triggered hydrogen-sulfide releasing gels

251st National Meeting (2016)

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